Speech & Language Link Certificate in SLCN Support

The Speech & Language Link Certificate in SLCN Support

Starting in November! A practical, expert-created e-learning course designed to help Teaching Assistants and Learning Support Assistants feel more confident supporting pupils with Speech, Language and Communication Needs. Developed by experienced Speech and Language Therapists, the course is rooted in real school practice and offers phase-specific learning for both primary and secondary settings.

Across seven self-directed modules, learners will build their understanding of SLCN, explore realistic strategies for the classroom, and learn how to recognise possible needs, respond appropriately and support pupils’ communication, learning and participation. With real-life case studies, scenario-based tasks, video demonstrations, reflective activities and two live webinars with Q&A all included, this course gives schools a flexible and sustainable way to strengthen inclusive practice and make a meaningful difference for pupils in every classroom.

This certificate course builds on the recently released DfE professional development material about understanding speech, language and communication development and its foundational role in education, providing a structured learning journey that helps staff turn understanding into confident practice.

Module 1: Intro to SLCN Pt 1

You’ll explore what SLCN is, including key terminology and diagnoses, and learn how speech, language and communication skills develop in children. We’ll also look at how children process language, the impact SLCN can have on learning and everyday school experiences, and the practical ways schools can respond to support children effectively. By the end of the module, you’ll have a solid foundation for understanding SLCN and its importance in educational settings.

Module 2: Intro to SLCN Pt 2

In this module, you’ll explore some of the practical challenges schools face, including why SLCN can sometimes be missed or mistaken for other difficulties. You’ll learn about the importance of early identification, when and how to raise concerns, and the role staff can play in ensuring children receive the right support at the right time. Through real-life case studies, you’ll also see how these principles apply in practice and gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of children with SLCN.

Module 3: Making a Difference in the Classroom - Pt 1

You’ll look at how attention and listening skills develop and discover practical strategies to encourage active listening in the classroom. You’ll also learn how to create a communication-supportive environment that benefits all pupils through a whole-class approach, while gaining simple, resource-free techniques to support children and young people with Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN). By the end of the module, you’ll have a range of practical ideas to help make communication and learning more accessible for everyone.

Module 4: Making a Difference in the Classroom - Pt 2

This highly practical module focuses on effective, low-resource strategies to support pupils with Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN). You’ll explore how visual supports can improve understanding and engagement, alongside simple classroom approaches that can make a meaningful difference to pupils’ learning and participation. Through real-life case studies, you’ll see these strategies in action and build confidence in applying them within your own classroom setting.

Module 5: Supporting Speech Sounds

In the fourth module of the Certificate in SLCN Support you’ll learn how speech sounds are produced and explore the typical stages of speech sound development in children. We’ll look at common speech sound difficulties, the signs to be aware of, and practical strategies to support children in the classroom. You’ll also learn what steps to take if you have concerns about a child’s speech development, helping you feel more confident in recognising and responding to speech sound needs effectively.

Module 6: Identification and Taking Action

You’ll learn how to recognise the signs of Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) and identify when a child may be experiencing language difficulties. We’ll explore common warning signs, consider how to distinguish between SLCN and English as an Additional Language (EAL), and challenge some common misconceptions. You’ll also discover what to do when concerns arise, including approaches to assessment and information gathering, the role of a Speech and Language Therapist, and practical tips for working with and supporting families throughout the process.

Module 7: Supporting Speech & Language Interventions

The key principles of supporting pupils who require speech and language intervention. You’ll learn how to prepare and deliver positive sessions, understand SMART targets, provide effective feedback and monitor progress. You’ll also learn when to consider ‘Stepping up’ or ‘Stepping down’ an activity to help pupils experience success. The module also explores how to support pupils to transfer their developing skills into everyday situations, ensuring that interventions lead to meaningful and lasting outcomes for children and young people. It also highlights the importance of working with others including families, carers and other professionals.

The Certificate in SLCN Support

Awarded by Speech & Language Link on completion of the course, this certificate is not focused on the use of Speech & Language Link assessments and interventions and is suitable for classroom staff in all schools whether you use our packages, other support or none. As noted above this course aims to reinforce and build on the DfE SLCN resource, with engaging and accessible materials, in order to implement confident practice in the classroom.